HC Deb 25 July 1951 vol 491 cc446-7
11. Mr. Hopkinson

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, having regard to the absence from the draft Japanese Peace Treaty of any restrictions on Japanese re-armament, he will initiate negotiations with a view to the deletion of the military clauses of the Italian Peace Treaty.

22. Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has any statement to make as to the proposals for revision of the Italian Peace Treaty recently forwarded to him by that Government.

Mr. Ernest Davies

The Italian Government have recently drawn the attention of His Majesty's Government and the United States and French governments to their wish for revision of the Italian Peace Treaty. The position is now under urgent consideration. Consultation with other governments is, of course, necessary.

Mr. Hopkinson

Having regard to the fact that the Italians fought on our side loyally and well for the last two years of the war, and that they are now an ally of ours in the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation, can we count on the full support of His Majesty's Government for this proposal?

Mr. Davies

As I said, the matter is under consideration in consultation with the United States and the French governments at the present time. It should not be overlooked, however, that any formal revision of the Treaty would require the agreement of all the signatories, including the U.S.S.R.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

In view, in particular, of the answer of the hon. Gentleman today to Question No. 5, can he give an assurance that the abolition of the military clauses of the Italian Treaty is regarded by His Majesty's Government as a matter of considerable urgency?

Mr. Davies

As I said, these matters are being considered in consultation. I cannot say more than that.